Delhi Diabetic Forum
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Diabetes Mellitus is present when there is too much glucose in the blood. Insulin is a hormone that lowers glucose levels in the blood. Glucose ( A FORM OF SUGAR ) is the main source of fuel for our bodies.
It comes from foods containing carbohydrate. Diabetes Mellitus develops when the pancreas ( THE ORGAN RESPONSIBLE FOR PRODUCING INSULIN ) is either unable to make insulin, or the insulin is unable to work effectively or both. Without insulin doing its job, glucose builds up in the blood leading to high blood glucose levels causing health problems.
TYPE 1
This type of diabetes used to be called Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or Juvenile Onset Diabetes. It usually occurs in people under 30 years, but can occur at any age. Type 1 diabetes affects approximately 5 per cent of people with diabetes.
In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas produces no insulin because the cells which make insulin have been destroyed by the immune system. Therefore people with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections to control their blood glucose levels.
TYPE 2
This type of diabetes used to be called Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or Maturity Onset Diabetes. It usually occurs in people who are over the age of 40 years and have a family history of diabetes, people are often overweight and inactive, although there are some exceptions.
Type 2 diabetes affects approximately 95 per cent of people with diabetes. Being overweight makes insulin less efficient at controlling blood glucose levels. This is often referred to as insulin resistance.
Type 2 diabetes often responds to a healthy eating plan, appropriate exercise and weight reduction; but sometimes tablets and then later, insulin may be required.
People most at risk of developing type 2 diabetes often have the following risk factors :
To keep blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible ( Fasting Blood Sugar From 80mg to 120mg & PP Blood Sugar From 120mg to 160mg ). This will help prevent the short term effects of high and low blood glucose levels and long term complications which can affect the Eyes, Kidneys and/or Nerves.
